BENDIGO'S federal member has called for the government to urgently mandate minimum staffing ratios in aged care, after auditors found failings in a Kangaroo Flat facility.
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The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission found the Royal Freemasons in Kangaroo Flat was not compliant with four quality standards in February.
Auditors said the home failed to make sure residents received effective and safe personal and clinical care, failed to manage risks around health deterioration, was short staffed, and had not minimised infection risks.
Lisa Chesters said aged care facilities failed audits all too frequently, putting people in vulnerable situations.
She said minimum staffing ratios were vital, because aged care workers were exhausted and leaving the sector.
Ms Chesters also called on the government to restore funding to the sector, and make sure residents received proper medical care. She said family members should not have to complain for aged care facilities to be inspected.
"It's urgent, it's a crisis. [They] need to fix this now," Ms Chesters said.
"It's about dignity and respect for older Australians. It's ensuring that they live in peace and comfort in their final years as opposed to the pain and indignity some of them have.
"That's where the government is just so disappointing. They're saying 'you're just going to have to wait until budget'. You've had the Aged Care Royal Commission report on your desk since March."
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Aged Care Services Minister Richard Colbeck said the government was carefully considering the Aged Care Royal Commission's recommendations, after its final report in March.
Mr Colbeck said it was clear Australia needed to make fundamental and generational change to the aged care system.
He said the government would provide a comprehensive response to the report in its upcoming budget, which would include clear pathways for funding proposed reforms.
"Providers are expected to regularly review workforce levels and mix of skills of their staff, and adapt these to respond to the changing needs and situations of care recipients," Mr Colbeck said.
The Aged Care Royal Commission's final report urged sweeping reforms, saying one in three Australian aged care residents had suffered substandard care.
With AAP.
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Elspeth Kernebone
Accident brought me to journalism, but every day convinces me again that strong media is more important than ever. After a starting off as the sole reporter in a tiny NSW town, I’m loving the teeming metropolis that is Bendigo. Focussed on health, business and education. Got a tip? Email elspeth.kernebone@bendigoadvertiser.com.au.
Accident brought me to journalism, but every day convinces me again that strong media is more important than ever. After a starting off as the sole reporter in a tiny NSW town, I’m loving the teeming metropolis that is Bendigo. Focussed on health, business and education. Got a tip? Email elspeth.kernebone@bendigoadvertiser.com.au.
